If I read this correctly, if Torch resigns within the next 5 days, then November 6 is "the next succeeding" election.
It's only if he pulls out today and waits a week to resign that there's a problem. I can't imagine the Dems actually trying to pull that one off -- it's too obviously an attempt to toss out the election. The potential for "Florida" fallout is too great, even if it is happening in NJ.
Still, I'm betting that the Dems really are looking at the option. In that scenario, Torch's press conference is delayed because the D's have got their lawyers studying the law and writing briefs to see if they can pull it off.
Under state law, if a candidate resigns his office or dies with more than 30 days to the election, the governor can appoint a new candidate. If it happens with less than 30 days before the election, the race can be canceled and the governor can set a new date for a special election.
Posted article here
They are. Nothing matters to the Democratic Party but retaining control of the Senate, by any means necessary. NOTHING.